
Bank First, N.A.
Bank First, N.A. is an active SBA lender in Wisconsin, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 3.5 stars across 15 Google reviews.
$507M
in SBA approvals since 2010
981
SBA loans funded
Manufacturing · Construction & Contractors · Restaurants & Food Service
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Bank First, N.A.
Bank First, N.A. offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small businesses seeking financial support for growth, expansion, or operational needs. With a focus on serving the local community, this institution provides flexible loan options backed by SBA programs, including the popular 7(a) loan program. Their team specializes in guiding clients through the application process, ensuring a smooth experience from initial inquiry to funding disbursement. Whether you're looking for working capital, equipment financing, or real estate loans, Bank First, N.A. is equipped to help small businesses achieve their goals with personalized service and competitive terms. The bank's expertise in SBA lending makes it a reliable partner for entrepreneurs in the Manitowoc area and beyond, emphasizing community development and business success.
Serves SBA borrowers in 3 states
Bank First, N.A. has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.
Industries Bank First, N.A. finances
Business types Bank First, N.A. actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about Bank First, N.A.
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a bank that offers SBA loan programs designed to help small businesses access funding for various needs. You can find information about loan options, application processes, and personalized support for your business growth.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It's recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure personalized service, but walk-ins are also welcome during business hours. Calling ahead can help you prepare for your visit.
What are the hours of operation?
The bank operates from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday. It's best to confirm hours before visiting, especially during holidays or special circumstances.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees to inquire about SBA loans, but standard loan fees and closing costs may apply if you proceed with a loan application.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves small business owners and entrepreneurs in the Manitowoc area, but eligibility depends on meeting SBA program requirements and creditworthiness.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of around 640 is generally preferred, though higher scores improve approval chances.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the completeness of your application and the complexity of your loan request.
Is this open on weekends?
Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Bank First, N.A. typically follows the same pattern. SBA lending staff are generally reachable Monday through Friday. A few locations offer Saturday or by-appointment hours, so call Bank First, N.A. to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Bank First, N.A. is located in Wisconsin — see the contact card for the full address. Most bank locations offer free on-site or nearby street parking for visitors. For exact directions, the entrance, and accessible parking, use the listed address or call ahead and staff can point you to visitor spaces.
Who owns or operates this listing?
This page is an independent directory listing for Bank First, N.A., an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Bank First, N.A. itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Bank First, N.A., you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Bank First, N.A. — name, location, contact, and lender type — are compiled from public records and reviewed periodically. Rates, programs, credit policies, and hours change often and are not guaranteed here, so always confirm the latest terms directly with Bank First, N.A. before applying. If you represent Bank First, N.A., claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Bank First, N.A. by phone at (920) 652-3100 or online at bankfirst.com — the details are in the contact card on this page. For SBA loans specifically, ask for their business lending or SBA department. Treat this directory page as a starting point and confirm hours and contact details with Bank First, N.A. before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, Bank First, N.A. most often finances businesses in manufacturing, construction & contractors, restaurants & food service, general retail, automotive repair & services, and medical practices & clinics. This reflects Bank First, N.A.'s real SBA 7(a) and 504 lending history rather than a stated policy — it can still consider other industries and sets its own current preferences, so confirm with Bank First, N.A. which sectors it actively lends to before you apply.
Can I apply for an SBA Express line of credit at this branch?
SBA Express offers lines of credit and term loans up to $500,000 with a faster turnaround than standard 7(a) loans. Whether Bank First, N.A. participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Bank First, N.A. and ask if it offers SBA Express and what the current limits and terms look like for your situation.
Does this bank have Preferred Lender Provider status with the government?
SBA Preferred Lender Program (PLP) status lets a lender approve loans in-house without sending each one to the SBA first, which usually means faster decisions. Many established banks hold PLP status, but it varies by institution. Bank First, N.A. can confirm its current PLP standing — ask before you apply if speed matters to you.
Are start-up companies eligible for financing at this traditional institution?
The SBA does fund start-ups, but many traditional lenders prefer at least two years of operating history and may ask newer ventures for a larger equity injection or stronger collateral. Bank First, N.A.'s appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Bank First, N.A. directly whether it considers start-up loans.
What are the typical down payment expectations for commercial real estate acquisitions?
For SBA 7(a) and 504 commercial real estate loans, borrowers typically contribute around 10% to 20% as a down payment or equity injection, depending on the property and the deal. Exact requirements vary with your credit, the business, and the lender's policy. Ask Bank First, N.A. what down payment it expects for your specific commercial real estate purchase.
Does this bank impose prepayment penalties on short-term working capital facilities?
SBA 7(a) loans with terms under 15 years generally carry no prepayment penalty, while longer real estate loans can have one in the early years. Short-term working capital lines often have no penalty, but terms vary by lender. Review your loan agreement and ask Bank First, N.A. to spell out any prepayment penalties before you sign.
Can I use loan proceeds from this bank to buy out an existing equity partner?
SBA loans can be used for a partner or owner buyout, including buying out an existing equity partner, when the deal is structured to meet SBA rules — for example, the remaining owner generally must stay actively involved. Approval depends on the specifics, so discuss your buyout plan with Bank First, N.A. to confirm it qualifies and how to document it.
Will historical personal bankruptcies automatically disqualify my loan application here?
A past personal bankruptcy does not automatically disqualify you from an SBA loan. Lenders look at how long ago it was discharged, the circumstances, and how your credit has recovered since. Bank First, N.A. weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Bank First, N.A. how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.



